Is It Possible To Install Solar Panels On A Listed Building?

If you live in or own a listed building, and you’ve been thinking about installing solar panels, you might assume it’s simply not possible. However, the good news is that’s not necessarily the case.

Solar panels can be installed on some listed buildings, although there are a few extra rules to consider, and you will usually need to get the right permissions first. One of the main things planners will most probably look at is whether the panels could affect the building's historic character or appearance. Every listed building is different, and what might be perfectly suitable for one property may not necessarily work for another. That’s why getting a professional solar survey is a really good place to start.

What Does It Mean if a Building is Listed?

A listed building is a property that has been recognised as having special architectural or historic interest. When a building is listed, the building’s character is protected, as well as any important features.

There are three grades of listed buildings:

• Grade I - buildings of exceptional interest

• Grade II* - particularly important buildings with more than special interest

• Grade II - buildings of special interest and the most common type of listing

The grade of a building indicates how significant the building is, but being listed doesn’t always mean you can’t make any changes to it. It simply means that certain types of work will need additional consideration and, in the majority of cases, permission. 

Can You Install Solar Panels on a Listed Building?

Installing solar panels on a listed building is possible. However, you will almost always need listed building consent before any solar installation takes place, and planning permission may also be needed depending on the property and proposed installation.

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to installin solar on listed buildings. Instead, applications are typically considered on a case-by-case basis by the local planning authority. 

One of the biggest things that they will consider is how the panels will affect the appearance and historic character of the building. For example, solar panels that are clearly visible could be more difficult to get approval for, compared to panels positioned discreetly on a rear roof slope. This is why the design and positioning of the system can make a big difference.

What Will Planners Look At?

When you apply to install solar panels on a listed building, there are a few things planners are likely to consider. Let’s run through some of the basics below:

How visible are the panels?

Visibility is a big one. If the panels can be easily seen from the road or other public areas, they could have a greater impact on the appearance of the building.

Where will they be installed?

The position the panels are being installed in also matters. A rear-facing roof can sometimes be a more suitable option compared to a front-facing roof.

Will they affect historic features?

Planners will want to know whether the installation could damage any original roof materials or other important features of the building. This is especially important with older properties, where small alterations can have an impact on the historic structure.

What’s The Difference Between a Listed Building and a Conservation Area?

Listed buildings and conservation areas are often mistaken for being the same thing, but they’re actually completely different.

A listed building is an individual building or property that has been given special protection because of its architectural or historic interest.

A conservation area is a larger area that has been identified as having special architectural or historic character. In fact, your home can be in a conservation area without being listed. 

How Can You Check if Your Building is Listed?

Checking if your building is listed is actually very simple. You can check via the NHLE, which will tell you whether the building is listed and, if it is, which grade it has. It’s also worth checking your local council’s planning information. This can help you find out whether your property is in a conservation area or affected by any additional local restrictions.

So, Can You Have Solar Panels on a Listed Building?

Absolutely. A listed building doesn’t automatically rule out solar panels. Even though there are extra hoops to jump through, and you will need to be particularly careful about the potential impact of the installation, with the right approach, solar can still be an option for some listed properties. 

The most important thing is to check the rules before doing anything. It’s vital not to go ahead and fit the panels without permission. Unauthorised work to a listed building can cause serious problems, so it’s always better to get the right advice before you start. A professional consultation can help you understand what’s realistic for your property and whether there are any potential planning issues. 

So, if you’ve been putting off solar because you live in a listed building, it’s definitely worth finding out what’s possible. 

At SKYGLO, we offer free solar consultations, where our experts design the best system that works for you and your home. Book your consultation today to find out what’s possible.